Here is my problem, Between the Graphics mode of my VM WorkStation (it doesn't like my 1 gig graphics card no Acceleration) and my ubuntu desktop. I lost my Task listing at the bottom of the Screen and my menu off the top not only does it gone from boot on but my individual Windows pop up with no top back on them either. I have tried to reconfigure but nothing works. I can come up in your stated protected mode and get it all to run correctly it is in a diminished graphics mode which only allows one boot this way. I would love to change the Graphics mode permenantly to this so I could make necessary repairs as of right now I have access to the shell in that system. I am a noobie to Linux but understand Sudo and root I just need to be pointed in the right direction with the right commands in the shell to make this permenant change.
Thanks for any help you can provide.